Sacyr's Blog

Carmen Andrade has dedicated her entire life to researching the materials with which we build our world. She is an expert on the strength and durability of concrete and the corrosion of steel.

Beyond parks and green spaces, biophilic design integrates architecture and nature into buildings from a dual perspective, improving the health of citizens, as well as opening the way to more sustainable cities. But what is the scientific basis for this trend?

The microbiota is the set of microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, etc.) that live in a particular environment. Our digestive system benefits from its presence, as these microorganisms produce energy and vitamins and help absorb calcium and iron.

Smart cities are gaining momentum in Latin American capitals. Projects such as the networks of sensors in Santiago de Chile or the creation of the world's largest urban cable car network in La Paz (Bolivia) provide a double opportunity. They offer the chance to take a leap forward and catch up with more developed countries in terms of energy efficiency and environmental care, but also to finally be able to bring running water and other basic supplies to millions of inhabitants of these large cities.

COVID-19 has put the focus squarely on biosecurity. Against the backdrop of social distancing and quarantines to curb the spread of the virus, technologies that were already seen as holding great promise (and threatening) to revolutionise transport and mobility are now gaining ground. Will the pandemic hasten the era of robots, drones and autonomous cars? We analyse this effect, focusing on the case of driverless vehicles.